Associate Dean for Special Collections

The Associate Dean will play a critical role in supporting the evolution of a twenty-first century special collections library. The facility housing the University of Arkansas Libraries’ Special Collections is undergoing a complete renovation and reimagining slated for completion in summer 2024. Special Collections is comprised of manuscript and archival collections, rare books, artifacts, and University Archives. Collecting strengths include international exchange, music, Civil Rights, architectural records, and Arkansas arts. Providing faculty, students, and researchers from across the globe with access to these collections is a vital part of the work of Special Collections. Making collections accessible and assisting those seeking to use our material is essential to this role.  Special Collections (https://libraries.uark.edu/specialcollections/) is the largest holder of works by and about Arkansans, and the University’s land-grant mission makes that the focus of collecting. It also includes a robust and growing Arkansas Folk and Traditional Arts program with faculty and staff working across the state (https://folklife.uark.edu/).

The Associate Dean is responsible for the development of strategic directions and associated projects, generating national and international interest in the collections, and working collaboratively with other organizations in the nation to enhance the availability of archived materials. As a member of the Libraries’ Administrative Group, the Associate Dean works collaboratively to develop and achieve the broader goals and initiatives of the Libraries. In addition, the Associate Dean will work across the organization on issues of digital preservation and digital collections.

Primary responsibilities include articulating a strategic focus to achieve the division’s goals and priorities while aligning those to the broader activities of the University Libraries; anticipating, initiating, and responding to changes in the academic programs and the University environment; structuring the collections to meet the information needs of the University; and ensuring that the Division maintains a strong commitment to excellent, inclusive, and equitable service. The Associate Dean is responsible for ensuring the alignment and involvement of their division’s efforts and personnel with the entirety of University Libraries. The Associate Dean also facilitates the integration of research and teaching through collaborations with University departments and programs, collaborates with colleagues to advance digital initiatives, actively contributes to library-wide planning and efforts, and ensures representation of the University Libraries in relevant local, regional, national, and international organizations.

Reporting to the Dean of Libraries, the Associate Dean for Special Collections leads a team of six faculty and seven FTE staff responsible for acquiring, processing, teaching, and exhibiting the breadth of unique and rare materials held by the University of Arkansas Libraries.

Responsibilities of this position include research, creative work, and service in keeping with the faculty requirements of the University of Arkansas.